Self-aligning ball bearings carry radial loads and moderate axial loads on two rows of balls running in a common spherical outer raceway. Because the ball set can tilt inside that raceway, the bearing absorbs shaft deflection and housing misalignment instead of passing it on to the shaft or the seals.
The two rows share one spherical outer raceway while the inner ring carries two separate raceways. This is what allows angular misalignment of up to about 4 degrees, depending on series and clearance. The design is the usual choice for line shafting, fans, conveyors and drives where alignment is difficult to hold in service.
Series and size range. The 12xx series is light and narrow, 13xx is light and wide, 22xx is a wide series and 23xx has the widest section for heavier radial loads. Bore sizes from 5 mm to 110 mm are available depending on series. The last two digits of the designation give the bore code: 00 = 10 mm, 01 = 12 mm, 02 = 15 mm, 03 = 17 mm, and from 04 onward the code multiplied by 5 gives the bore in millimetres.
Load direction. Self-aligning ball bearings are radial-first. Axial capacity is limited to light thrust in either direction, roughly 25 to 30 percent of the radial rating. Where continuous thrust loading is present, an angular contact or tapered roller bearing is the correct choice.
Clearance, precision and cage. Standard clearance is C0; C3 is used for interference fits on the shaft, temperature differentials between shaft and housing, or higher speeds. Precision grades P6 and P5 are available on request for machine tool and instrumentation duty. Cages are steel, brass or polyamide, and sealed variants suit dusty or humid environments.
Selection checklist. Confirm bore and outer diameter or the part number being replaced, radial and axial load with duty cycle, speed and lubrication method, required misalignment allowance, clearance class and precision grade, sealing requirement, and whether mounting is on a cylindrical bore or a tapered bore with adapter sleeve.
Send the part number or application drawing and we confirm dimensions, clearance, cage and lead time within 24 hours.
Not sure which series fits? Send your part number or drawing - we will cross-reference it and reply within 24 hours.
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